Most of us are guilty of filling our schedules up to maximum capacity each week.  Sometimes we bite off more than we can chew, but we like it that way.  Our generation loves to keep busy, keep moving and keep pushing through.  But when is it too much?  Here at StudioHop HQ, we realize the importance of balance. We love tough workouts but we also love a good rest day.  Here are signs you might be pushing yourself too hard:

Girl in childs pose

  1. You’re dreading your workout – There is a difference between not wanting to get out of bed at 6am and not being able to. I’ll be first to admit sometimes when I get to an early class, I’m just not feeling it.  I feel lethargic, my balance is off and those 5 lb dumbbells seem a little heavier than they did they other day.  This usually happens when I’m doing back to back to back workouts without a rest somewhere in between.  If you’re feeling this way, its probably a sign you’re pushing too hard.
  2. You’re tired all the time – More than just your average 3pm crash.  This is an all day feeling that you can’t beat, even with that morning cup of Joe.
  3. You’re overly sore – Imagine day after leg day x 10.  If you think you’re more sore than you should be, it’s probably your body asking for a little break.  Take a rest day, heat or ice any sore muscles as needed and then see how you feel the next day.
  4. You’re workout performance is declining – This is a tough one, because we like to exhaust our capabilities in the gym/studio.  It’s when you do just one more rep, even when you think you can’t, that your body begins to change.  You become stronger.  However, if you notice you’re unable to finish a workout that you usually can, or you’re moving slower when you should be getting faster, it might be time for a break.
  5. You have trouble sleeping – Studies show that when you body is training too hard, your nervous system can get out of wack.  If you’re having trouble staying asleep all night or tossing and turning, your body is trying to tell you something.

Girl having trouble sleeping

It is so important to be in tune with your body and to listen to obvious signs.  Working out can become addicting because it’s fun and usually leaves us all in a better mood, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with slowing down for a day.  Trust us, your body will thank you!